In a heartfelt video message for this year’s ALS Walk for Life in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV reminded participants that “the value of life is not measured by achievement, but by love.”

His words carried both encouragement and consolation for those living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), their families, caregivers, and the researchers tirelessly working to bring hope.

The annual Walk for Life, organized by the Les Turner ALS Foundation, has long been a gathering point for communities to raise awareness and funds in support of ALS research.

This year’s event was made even more memorable by the Pope’s message, which reached across faiths, professions, and backgrounds to emphasize a universal truth: human dignity is never diminished by illness or limitation.

Speaking directly to scientists and medical professionals, Pope Leo expressed gratitude for their commitment to unraveling the mysteries of motor neuron diseases.

“I am filled with admiration and gratefulness for your perseverance,” he said.

He recalled the Jewish concept of tikkun olam — the call to heal and repair creation — and linked it to the mission of researchers who labor to relieve human suffering.

Quoting Pope John Paul II, he stressed that just as artists must be free to share their creativity, scientists, too, must be encouraged to use their God-given talents in service of others.

Pope Leo then turned to those whose service often goes unnoticed: the caregivers.

He described them as hidden heroes of love, drawing on wisdom from Islam’s Hadith tradition: “It is said that 70,000 angels accompany caretakers each morning, and 70,000 more in the evening. I believe you too are angels.”

With this imagery, he acknowledged the tireless devotion of family members, nurses, and professionals who provide daily comfort and dignity to patients with ALS.

He also spoke directly to those living with the disease, recognizing the immense burden they bear.

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurological illness that destroys motor neurons — the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement.

As the disease advances, it causes muscle weakness, paralysis, and the loss of basic functions such as walking, speaking, and eventually even breathing.

Despite its devastating impact, Pope Leo encouraged patients not to see themselves through the lens of loss, but through the deeper reality of love.

“You have been given a heavy burden,” he said gently, “but your suffering reveals something profound — the true quality of life does not depend on achievement. It depends on love.”

These words carried special weight for families walking the painful journey of loss.

The Pope offered hope and consolation to those mourning loved ones, insisting that “death is not the final word. Love conquers death.”

In doing so, he reframed grief, urging families to hold fast to the enduring bond of love that illness and death cannot break.

Before concluding, Pope Leo highlighted the work of Harvey and Bonnie Gaffen, co-founders of the Les Turner ALS Foundation, whose dedication has inspired decades of advocacy, research, and support.

He praised their steadfast commitment: “So many are here because of you — the greatness of your heart.”

By honoring their example, he underscored the importance of compassion, perseverance, and the enduring power of community.

The Pope’s message was more than words of blessing.

It was a call to see beyond illness and limitation, to measure life not by milestones or accomplishments but by the love we give and receive.

For those who gathered at the Walk for Life, his words offered a reminder that even in the face of one of medicine’s most devastating diseases, hope, solidarity, and love remain stronger than despair.